Do you have a spring in your step while playing a round of golf or do
you feel completely exhausted by the 15th hole? Sometimes you may feel
out of breath just walking to your next shot.
Hours of sitting at computers, driving to work and then watching TV
at home, all lead to being less physically fit, posture-related aches
and pains and a general feeling of sluggishness. Then you get to the
golf course and wonder why you simply just don't have the energy to
complete a nice round of golf.
Golf is no different than any other sport. You need to be
physcially fit to perform at your best. This is even more important if
your a recreational golfer since you really don't have time to
practice.
One of the most natural forms of exercise is walking. Walking is an
aerobic exercise that will not only increase your cardiovascular
strength, but is good for the bones and improves your posture as well.
I would like to introduce you to power walking and list some of the
benefits it has on your golf game.
Power Walking
This is a form of aerobic exercise consisting of rapid walking
accompanied by vigorous, controlled swinging of the arms. Simply put,
it is an exaggerated walking style that has more health benefits than
just a casual stroll.
You want to get your power walking speed up to 4.0 to 4.5 mph for
optimal calorie burning. However, if you are just starting out you may
want to go at a slower pace and gradually pick up the pace over a few
weeks time.
Power Walking Benefits
1. Cardiovascular fitness is improved thus giving you more
endurance to complete a full round of golf, not to mention reducing the
risk of coronary disease and strokes.
2. Mental well-being is improved resulting in a reduction in
anxiety, stress and tension allowing you to relax and focus on the golf
course.
3. Muscles are toned and strengthened allowing you to better handle the physical demands of the golf swing.
4. Helps to reduce body fat and manage your body weight therefore improving your golf physic.
5. Boosts energy so you don't tire as easily going form shot to shot.
The above are just a few of the physical and mental benefits to be
gained from power walking for golf. It is a low cost form of exercise.
No special clothes or equipment are necessary except a good pair of
walking shoes.
Although any form of walking is beneficial, power walking is
extremely helpful with golf performance, both mentally and physically.
So grab your walking shoes and power walk yourself to a better golf
game!
As always consult your doctor before starting your power walking program.
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